fall flatbreads.

Flatbreads are the perfect way to take the typical pizza concept and turn it up a notch.  Not only is the super-thin crust delicious and lighter than the traditional italian recipe, but it's an easy canvas to create a variety of exceptional recipes with unique flavor profiles.  A flatbread is the perfect menu item to alter based on seasonal ingredients - it's versatile enough to cut into neat little squares for cocktails or to simply sit alongside a steamy cup of soup for those chilly days in.  All you need is a bag of pre-made pizza dough (traditional white, whole wheat or herb all work great) and any ingredients that strike your fancy. Roll the dough out very thin (about 1/8-1/4") - I like to make it into a rectangle so I can cut it into squares. Layer on quality ingredients for the perfect bite; then, following the baking directions for the dough, bake on a sheet pan until golden brown and crispy  (or roll out in a circle and use a pizza stone). Here's a lovely recipe from Martha Stewart for a Mint, Feta and Lamb version, or try these other great flavor combinations I've tried in the past:

image and recipe courtesy of Martha Stewart.

Other delicious flavor combinations:

Caramelized Onion + Prosciutto + Fontina

Basil Pesto + Grilled Shrimp + Roasted Garlic + Mozzarella

Mushroom + Thyme + Gruyere

Goat Cheese + Fig + Prosciutto

Pesto + Chicken + Artichoke + Parmesan

Tomato + Ricotta + Basil + Fresh Mozzarella

The flatbreads only take about 10 minutes to cook and can be served at room temperature, so they are the perfect pick-up bites to serve at a party.  Experiment with different sauces, cheeses, and other fresh, seasonal ingredients to find your favorite combination!